Growing Dogwood Trees from Seed: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Flowering dogwoods (Cornus florida) are beautiful native trees that are easy to grow from seed. With their showy spring blossoms, these trees are a popular choice for gardeners of all levels. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to successfully propagate dogwood trees from seed.
Collecting Dogwood Seeds
The first step in growing dogwood trees from seed is to collect the seeds from native trees. In the southern United States, seeds can be collected in early autumn. In the northernmost regions of the U.S., seeds should be collected in November.
To collect the seeds, look for fleshy drupes (fruits) on the tree. Each drupe contains one seed. The seeds are ready to collect when the outer flesh of the drupe turns red. Don’t wait too long to collect the seeds, as birds and other animals also enjoy eating them.
Preparing the Seeds
Once you have collected the dogwood seeds, you need to prepare them for planting. First, soak the seeds in water for a couple of days. This will help to soften the seed coat and make it easier for the seed to germinate.
After soaking, remove the external pulp from the seeds. You can do this by hand or by using a fine wire screen.
Planting the Seeds
Now it’s time to plant the dogwood seeds. Prepare a seedbed with well-draining soil. You can also use a flat with a well-draining medium.
Plant each seed about one-half inch (1 cm.) deep and 1 inch (2.5 cm.) apart in rows 6 inches (15 cm.) apart. Cover the planted soil with light compost like pine straw to hold in moisture.
Germination and Care
Propagating dogwoods from seed is not an overnight event. It takes time before you witness dogwood seed germination. You’ll usually see the new seedlings appear in spring following an autumn sowing.
Once the seedlings have emerged, keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water the seedlings regularly, especially during dry spells.
Transplanting the Seedlings
When the seedlings are a few inches tall, you can transplant them into individual pots or into the ground. Be careful not to damage the roots when transplanting.
Choose a planting site that receives full sun or partial shade. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Growing Dogwood Trees
With proper care, your dogwood trees will grow into beautiful and healthy specimens. Dogwood trees are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require some basic care.
Water the trees regularly, especially during the first year after planting. Fertilize the trees annually with a balanced fertilizer.
Prune the trees as needed to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree.
Conclusion
Growing dogwood trees from seed is a rewarding experience. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the beauty of these native trees for many years to come.
